Evaluating Online Computer Science Degrees

With their structured yet flexible scheduling, online CS programs are ideal for working professionals. Undergraduate and graduate CS degrees are now being offered 100% online or in a hybrid form with some face-to-face courses.

An online degree can be just as valid as an on-campus option – if you pick the right one. In addition to all the characteristics of a quality CS degree, a strong online program will have:

Regional accreditation

ABET accreditation (optional)

The same faculty teaching on-campus and online

Multiple hands-on opportunities (e.g. virtual lab work)

Internships in your local area

Strong “brick and mortar” reputation (e.g. high rankings, respected research centers, partnerships with top companies and organizations, etc.)

Graduate placement statistics

Dedicated distance learning support services

School Rankings

1

Rio Salado College

Rio Salado College offers an online Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in computer technology that consists of 61-64 credits and can be completed online. Students accepted to the program follow a curriculum that offers coursework and hands-on training in graphical applications, electronic spreadsheets, computer operating systems, database management, and the latest trends and developments in the field of computer science and information technology. At the current time, certificates of completion are available in the following areas: computer usage and applications (17 credits), advanced computer usage and applications (36 credits), digital design (35 credits), networking - design and system support (31 credits), and web design - user interface (34 credits). Students have the option of completing any of these programs online.

2

Ivy Tech Community College

The Associate of Science in Computer Science program offered by Ivy Tech Community College can be pursued online. The program prepares students for transfer to several four-year public colleges and universities in Indiana in a similar field of study. Students also acquire the skills to enter the workforce directly (as systems analyst, software application specialist, etc.) after completing the program. Courses are available synchronously, requiring students to connect to a live class session at pre-set times each week. The curriculum includes fundamental coursework in the field of computer science that cover topics such as data structure design, software engineering, algorithm analysis and design, and computer graphics. Students who pursue the program on a full-time basis can earn the degree in four semesters.

3

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Pennsylvania State University offers the following online degrees in information sciences and technology: Bachelor of Science (125 credits), Associate in Science (60 credits), and an undergraduate certificate (12 credits). An undergraduate certificate in security and risk analysis is also available. On the graduate level, the university offers a Master of Professional Studies in Information Sciences degree. Students admitted to the program take courses that relate specifically to cybersecurity and information assurance. Penn State has been designated by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education. Post-baccalaureate certificates are also available in the fields of information systems cybersecurity and in enterprise information and security technology architecture

4

Guilford Technical Community College

Guilford Technical Community College offers Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees in the following areas: computer information technology, computer programming, and computer technology integration. The AAS in Computer Information Technology degree is comprised of 66-67 credits and prepares students for entry-level work in businesses and organizations that use computer systems to manage information. Students pursuing the computer technology integration program have the option of selecting web development as their area of emphasis. The curriculum for the AAS in Computer Programming degree includes coursework in diverse areas such as quantitative literacy, networking concepts, systems analysis & design, and mobile applications. A basic 12-credit certificate is also available in computer information technology, as well as an 18-credit certificate in computer technology integration.

5

University of Massachusetts-Lowell

The University of Massachusetts in Lowell offers the following online programs in information technology (IT): Bachelor of Science, Associate of Science, and an undergraduate certificate. Applicants who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-IT field but who wish to earn a second bachelor's degree in information technology can do so by taking 10 additional courses in designated IT areas. The university also offers a Master of Science in Information Technology degree that can be pursued 100 percent online. Students who have completed the certificate program in Systems Models and Management or in Network Security at UMass can apply the earned credits for the certificate towards the MS degree. MS candidates take courses in system infrastructure, network infrastructure, and software management.

CAG Score 93.2

17,179 Students

6

Regis University

Regis University offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree that is available completely online and accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). Students accepted to the program can choose from the following areas of concentration: computer engineering, computer science, computer information systems, and information technology. The completion of 128 semester hours is required for the degree. Qualified students can combine the BS in Computer Science degree with a master's degree program offered by the College of Computer & Information Sciences (except for the MS in Software Engineering & Database Technologies program). Students can also complement their bachelor's degree with an undergraduate certificate in information system security that is also available online.

7

Syracuse University

The Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science degree offered at Syracuse University is a 30-credit program that is available both on campus and online. Most students complete the program in 15 months. The curriculum includes courses that cover topics such as advanced computer architecture, design and analysis of algorithms, principles of operating systems, software engineering, and mobile application programming. An online MS degree in computer engineering is also available. Students accepted to this program learn about artificial intelligence, data mining methodologies, and computational complexity and programming language semantics. The university also offers an online MS in Cybersecurity degree. The NSA and Department of Homeland Security has designated Syracuse University as a Center for Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education since 2001.

8

South Texas College

South Texas College offers a Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT) degree in computer and information technologies that can be pursued online. The curriculum consists of coursework in system analysis and design, Internet/intranet server integration, advanced web design, convergent technology, and network security. Students are required to complete a capstone project in order to earn the degree. Online Associate of Science degrees in computer science and in computer information systems are also available. Both programs are designed for students with plans to continue on to a baccalaureate program in a related field at South Texas College or at a four-year university. However, students who complete the program are also equipped with the necessary skills to perform entry-level work in the information technology field.

9

Towson University

The School of Emerging Technologies at Townson University offers six post-baccalaureate certificates online that provide students with the opportunity to study the most relevant and timely topics in the field of computer science and information technology. At the current time, post-baccalaureate certificates are available in the following areas: database management systems, information security and assurance, internet application development, networking technologies, security assessment and management, and software engineering. It typically takes one year to complete a post-baccalaureate certificate. Towson University also offers an online Master of Science in Applied Information Technology (MS-AIT) degree. Students can complete the requirements for one of the post-baccalaureate certificates above and enroll in six additional graduate-level courses to meet the educational requirements for the MS-AIT degree.

CAG Score 95.8

22,285 Students

10

Northern Virginia Community College

The Associate of Science (AS) degree in information technology offered at Northern Virginia Community College is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year university in order to pursue a bachelor's degree in the field. Students must complete at least 62 credits to earn the AS degree. The college also offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program in information systems technology. This program is designed primarily for students who plan to seek immediate employment in the information technology field after earning the degree. The completion of 67 credits is required for the AAS degree. Certificates are available in network engineering (16 credits) and in web design and development (25 credits). Each certificate can be completed in one year.

11

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers a Bachelor of Science degree in information technologies that can be pursued entirely online. The program has 11 areas of concentration, including emerging fields such as cybersecurity, game design & development, geographic information systems, network & telecommunications, and robotics & artificial intelligence. A Bachelor of Arts in Information Technologies degree is also available. The program is designed for professionals who are already in IT-related positions and who wish to increase their technical skills and knowledge, or for those who want to shift to an IT-related field of work. On the graduate level, Master of Science degrees in cybersecurity and in information technologies are offered. There is an Associate of Science in Information Technologies program available as well.

12

University of Illinois at Springfield

Students who wish to be considered for admission to the online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) must have completed two semesters of Java programming and at least one semester each of calculus, discrete or finite mathematics, and statistics. Additionally, UIS offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security degree that can also be pursued online. The university's Computer Science Department is designated as a National Center for Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education by the NSA and the Department of Homeland Security. On the graduate level, Master of Science degrees are available in computer science and in management information systems. A graduate certificate in IT project management is also offered.

13

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Students accepted to the Information Technology Infrastructure certificate program offered at the University of Minnesota can earn the degree partly online. The program is comprised of at least 16 credits and offers the following tracks of study: data management, systems, security, data science, networking, and development and operations. Additional tracks of study are currently being developed. Students are also given the option of designing an individualized track of study by taking a cluster of classes that support their interests and career goals. Online courses are available asynchronously, while on-campus classes are held in the evening or late afternoon. Credits earned towards the certificate are transferrable to other degree programs at the University of Minnesota or other colleges and universities.

CAG Score 96.7

51,147 Students

14

DePaul University

The College of Computing and Digital Media at DePaul University offers online Bachelor of Science degrees in computer science and in information technology. Required courses for these degrees are all available online, however, some general education classes may only be offered on campus. The university also offers several online Master of Science programs that cover a wide range of traditional and emerging computer science and information technology fields, such as computer game development, e-commerce technology, information systems, network engineering & security, and software engineering. Students interested in leading and managing IT project teams can explore the MS in Project Management program. There is also an MS degree in human-computer interaction that prepares students to design and implement more accessible computer interfaces.

15

St Petersburg College

St. Petersburg College offers online Associate in Science (AS) degrees in the following computer science and information technology fields: computer networking, computer programming and analysis, cybersecurity, digital forensic and computer investigations, computer information technology, and web development. After completing an AS program, students have the option of transferring their AS credits to the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Technology Development and Management program, which is also available online. The BAS degree offers the following areas of specialization: data analytics, information security assurance, project management, and software development. Several computer science and information technology-related certificates are available online as well, such as Cisco certified network associate, help desk support specialist, computer-related crime investigations, Linux system administrator, and Microsoft certified solutions associate.

16

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems degree that is certified by the Electronic Campus Program of the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB). Students take courses that cover the traditional and emerging fields of computer science and information technology such as web programming, software design, database management, multi-media design, and wireless networks. An online Master of Science (MS) in Computer Information Systems program is also available. Nova also offers online MS degrees in computer science, information security, computing technology in education, and information security. Students interested in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree can choose from the following programs: PhD in Computer Science, PhD in Information Technology, and a PhD in Computing Technology in Education.

17

Somerset Community College

Somerset Community College offers online courses and degrees through the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). Students interested in the field of computer science and information technology can explore the Associate in Science (AS) degree with tracks in the following: network administration, information security, applications, programming, information security, Internet technologies, and network technologies. Students take core courses that are common to all tracks and select a cluster of electives that support their area of interest as a way of customizing their program. Courses for the completion of the AS degree are offered asynchronously. There are also several certificate programs available online, including the CIT Fundamentals Certificate (26 credits), a Web Programming Certificate (24 credits), and the Microsoft Network Administrator Certificate (19 credits).

18

Central Texas College

Central Texas College offers online Associate of Applied Science degrees in the following fields: information security, network systems administrator, information technology, and program analyst. Each degree is comprised of 60 credits and can be earned in two years. Online certificate programs are available in the following areas: cybersecurity (22 credits), information security specialist (30 credits), computer help desk specialist (30 credits), network server and cloud administration (19 credits), network specialist (31 credits), and software development and testing specialist (16 credits). Central Texas College also offers certification preparation programs for the IT industry. After completing the appropriate requirements, students are eligible to sit for exams that lead to certifications as MCITP Server Administrator or in Security + and in CompTIA's Network+.

19

University of Southern California

The Viterbi School of Engineering at the University of Southern California offers a Master of Science in Computer Science degree that can be pursued online. The courses that comprise the MS program are structured in a manner that allows online students to fully engage with the on-campus classroom. Online MS degrees are also available in computer security, data science, multimedia and creative technologies, and software engineering. A specially-designed MS in Computer Science program for scientists and engineers addresses the needs of students with a bachelor's degree in engineering or science, but a limited background in computer science. The MS curricula encompass a wide range of topics that include traditional and emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, database systems, web technology, and geometric modelling.

20

National University

The School of Engineering and Computing at National University offers Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in computer science that can both be pursued online. Qualified students can participate in a BSCS/MSCS transition program that reduces the number of courses required to earn the MS degree from 12 to 10. The MS program offers three areas of concentration: advanced computing, software engineering, and database engineering. There are two other online undergraduate programs available - a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management. On the graduate level, there are two additional online programs as well - a Master of Science in Cyber Security and Information Assurance and a Master of Science in Management Information Systems.

21

Trident Technical College

Trident Technical College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Computer Technology degree that is comprised of 60 credits and can be completed online. Students admitted to the program are given the option of specializing in computer programming or in information systems. Certificate in Applied Science (CAS) in Computer Technology programs are also available online in the following areas: database management (15 credits), internet programming (21 credits), microcomputer expert user (21 credits), microcomputer business applications (12 credits), microcomputer programming (18 credits), and mobile application programming (24 credits). At the current time, there are two online CAS programs offered in the field of network systems management - the A+/Network+ Technician (24 credits) and Microsoft Network Systems Administration (21 credits).

22

Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University offers a Master of Software Engineering (MSE) degree that is available online. Course materials, as well as other instructional tools such as dedicated websites and chat rooms, are accessible to students at any time. The MSE is a 16-month program comprised of three semesters and one summer session. The curriculum gives students the opportunity to study essential issues in software engineering such as software systems models, analysis of software artifacts, managing software development, and architectures for software systems. The university offers two additional graduate-level programs - Master of Science in Information Technology - Software Engineering (MSIT-SE) and Master of Science in Information Technology - Software Engineering Management (MSIT-SEM). Certificates are available in software engineering and in systems and software engineering.

23

Seminole State College of Florida

Seminole State College offers an online Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Technology (B.S.I.S.T.) program that gives students the opportunity to pursue a track in security. Associate in Science (AS) degrees are available in computer programming and analysis (60 credits), information systems technology (63 credits), and in network systems technology (63 credits). The information systems technology program offers two tracks - one in networking and another in programming. Students accepted to the AS in Network Systems Technology program can choose from the following areas of specialization: CISCO network infrastructure, network operating systems, and virtualization. Online certificates are currently available in: computer programming, computer repair and installation, information technology analysis, IT client specialist, computer programming specialist, and web development.

24

Colorado State University-Global Campus

Colorado State University - Global Campus offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) degree that can be earned 100 percent online. Students can customize their educational experience by choosing an area of specialization and taking five upper-division courses in that area. Specializations are available in several fields including cybersecurity, data management and analysis, and computer programming. BSIT graduates are prepared for a number of professional certification exams such as CompTIA A+, Microsoft SQL, and Microsoft Server 2008. The university offers a Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) degree that can also be completed online. The MSIT program consists of courses in IT management, management enterprise resources planning (ERP) systems, managing virtualized and cloud systems, and business continuity and disaster recovery.

25

Lone Star College System

The Associate of Science (AS) in Computer Science degree offered at Lone Star College is designed primarily for students who plan to transfer to a larger university and apply their AS credits to a four-year undergraduate degree. The program consists of 60 credits and can be pursued online. The college also offers a Microsoft Office Specialist Certificate that is comprised of 18 credits. Students interested in computer programming can explore the following available options: Programming Specialist Certificate Level I (30 credits), C++ Programming Enhanced Skills Certificate (9 credits), and Visual Basic Enhanced Skills Certificate (9 credits). Either one of the two 9-credit certificates can be applied towards an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program to complete a Technical AAS degree (69 credits).

26

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

The online Master of Computer Science degree at North Carolina State University is comprised of 32 credits and may be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. Each student works with an advisor to develop a customized plan of study. All requirements for the degree must be completed within six years of initial enrollment. Although there are no residency requirements for the degree, only students living in the United States are eligible for admission. The online Master of Science in Computer Networking program is is open to all USA residents, as well as United States military personnel assigned overseas. The university offers a computer programming certificate designed for students with a bachelor's degree who wish to acquire skills in Java programming.

27

Columbia University in the City of New York

The Master of Science in Computer Science degree available at Columbia University is comprised of 30 credits and can be pursued 100 percent online. Students are required to select a concentration track during their first semester in the program. At the current time, tracks are available in the following fields of study: computation biology, computer security, foundations of computer science, machine learning, natural language processing, network systems, software systems, and vision and graphics. Students can choose from upper-level course offerings that cover emerging trends in computer science such as artificial intelligence, mathematical models for computation, computer-aided digital design, and computation complexity and algorithm analysis. There is also a Doctor of Engineering in Computer Science program that is available partially online.

28

Davenport University

Davenport University offers online Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in the following fields: computer science, information assurance, technology management, computer information systems, and database systems and programming. Students accepted to the BS in Computer Science program can choose from the following areas of specializations: biometrics, gaming and simulation, and math modeling. Master of Science degrees are available in computer science, information assurance, and in technology management only. The university offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in computer information systems that can also be pursued online. The AAS program is comprised of 60 credits. Students learn about programming and database and operating systems within a business setting. An 18-credit post-baccalaureate certificate in global project management is also available online.

29

Wake Technical Community College

Wake Tech Community College offers Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees in the following fields: computer programming and development, data science and programming support services, and software and web development. AAS programs are also available for students who are interested in information technology fields such as web development, web design, and mobile applications development. All the AAS mentioned above can be pursued online. Graduates are qualified to take industry certification credentials in CompTIA, CISCO, Oracle, etc. Wake Tech also offers several online certificates that students can use to customize their educational experience. Certificate programs are available in traditional and emerging computer science and IT fields, such as: advanced web design, Android application development, JavaScript, web development, and database programming.

30

University of California-Berkeley

UC Berkeley offers a certificate program in software development and programming that is comprised of 4-8 courses (10 semester units) and can be pursued online. The curriculum includes a wide range of courses that cover topics such as software quality assurance methodologies, concepts of relational database management systems, information systems and design, and software project management. Students can customize their learning experience by taking courses that support their interests, as well as their academic and career goals. Students can focus on topic areas such as data communications and web development, system administration, software development life cycle, databases, and technical writing. All coursework for the degree must be completed satisfactorily within three years of a student's initial enrollment in the program.

CAG Score 95.8

37,565 Students

31

Stanford University

Stanford University offers a graduate certificate in cyber security that is comprised of 12-14 units and can be pursued entirely online. Following an interdisciplinary approach, the program examines computer systems security and provides students with the training and skills needed to detect and prevent security attacks in an electronic environment. In addition to studying basic theory and cryptographic techniques, students admitted to the program also learn about digital forensics, legal issues in computer security, technology and national security, designs for network perimeter defenses, and testing methods for detecting possible system penetrations. Most students take an average of one to two years to earn the certificate. Students are required to complete the program within three years from the time of their initial enrollment.

32

George Mason University

Students interested in the field of information technology can pursue a Bachelor of Science, an undergraduate certificate, or a minor in the field at George Mason University. All these programs are available online. A concentration in technology and science is available for students pursuing the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree. Master of Science programs are available in the following: systems engineering, bioinformatics and computational biology, and applied information technology (with a concentration in cyber security). The school also offers online graduate certificates in architecture-based systems integration, eLearning, and in systems engineering analysis and architecture. The computer science and information technology programs offered at George Mason University are accredited by Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).

CAG Score 95.3

33,729 Students

33

Lakeland Community College

Lakeland Community College offers an Associate in Technical Studies degree in computer information technology that can be completed online. Students admitted to the program can specialize in one of the following areas: computer network support, data information analysis, web content design, computer user support, software development and design, and media studies. Students with an area of interest not mentioned above can craft an individual plan of study with the approval of at least two faculty members from the Technology and Computer Science Department. Lakeland also offers online courses that prepare students for industry certifications from Microsoft, Oracle, CompTIA, Cisco, and Red Hat. Additional programs are available in information technology with concentrations in web content development and in application programming and development.

34

Franklin University

Franklin University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) degree comprised of 128 semester hours, 68 of which have to be taken in the major. The curriculum provides students with the opportunity to study essential and emerging topics such as computer architecture, object-oriented design, coding and testing, web application development, database management, and quality assurance. There is also a special BSCS program for students who already have an undergraduate degree and who wish to earn a second degree in the field of computer science. An online Associate of Science in Computer Science program is available as well. The online Master of Science in Computer Science degree is comprised of 40 semester hours and can be completed in 5 trimesters.

35

The University of West Florida

The Computer Science Department at the University of Western Florida offers two area of specialization for the Master of Science degree - database systems and software engineering. Both programs can be completed entirely online. Students who choose the database systems specialization must take two software engineering courses and two database electives, in addition to four foundational database courses. The completion of a capstone project or a thesis is a requirement for the degree. The software engineering specialization provides students with the skills and hands-on training required for the development of top-quality software systems for implementation in a variety of electronic environments. Undergraduate certificates are offered online in the following areas: database systems, information security management, technology systems support, and web development technology.

CAG Score 94.7

12,602 Students

36

Saint Leo University

St. Leo University's School of Business offers an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems degree accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). Students enroll in classes on information security, systems analysis and design, database concepts and programming, network theory and design, and decision support systems. A Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree with a specialization in information assurance is also available online. On the graduate level, the university offers an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree that follows a curriculum aligned with the guidelines set forth by the National Security Agency for graduate information assurance programs. Graduate certificates in information security management and Associate of Art degrees in information technology are also offered online.

37

Front Range Community College

Front Range Community College offers Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees in the following fields: computer information systems, database administration, programming, and web development. Students can also craft an individual plan of study to align their educational experience with their long-term career goals. AAS degrees consists of 60 credits, are available online, and can be completed within two years. Students who complete any of the AAS programs above can transfer their degree to Regis University, where they can go on to pursue a Bachelor of Applied Science or a Bachelor of Science degree in computer information systems, computer networking, or in computer science. Fully online certificates are offered in database administration (12 credits), programming (20 credits), and applications specialist (12 credits).

38

New Jersey Institute of Technology

The online Master of Science in Business and Information Systems program available at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) offers several areas of specialization including data analytics, user experience design, security and network management, systems analysis and design, and web systems. Master of Science programs in computer science and in information systems are offered online as well. There is also an online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in information systems available. NJIT offers several 12-credit graduate certificate programs that can be earned completely online. At the current time, graduate certificates are available in the following: information technology administration, data mining, management of technology, network security and information assurance, business and information systems, software engineering, analysis, and design, and web systems development.

CAG Score 94.5

10,646 Students

39

Clovis Community College

Clovis Community College offers a number of Certificate of Achievement programs for students interested in obtaining industry-recognized certifications. The Web Technology Certificate of Completion is comprised of 23 credits and can be pursued entirely online. The Certificate of Achievement in Certified Internet Web (CIW) Foundations Associate is also available online and consists of 11 credits. The programs prepare students for the Computing Core Certification (IC3) and the Certified Internet Web (CIW) Foundations Associate certifications. These courses are transferrable to an Associate of Applied Science degree in a related field. Additional programs prepare students for take certification exams in the CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+, Microsoft Certified Solutions Administrator (MCSA), Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT), and Cisco Certified Networking Associates (CCNA).